Syrian President Asserts Golan Heights Remain Syrian Territory

Syrian President Ahmad al-Shar' addressed the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, strongly condemning Israeli military operations within Syria while asserting that peace between the two nations remains achievable. He stated, "The possibility of peace and security is open to those who wish to live in peace, a just peace that preserves everyone's rights." As Syria gradually reclaims its international standing, al-Shar' accused Israel of persistent attacks, denouncing "hundreds" of airstrikes, incursions, and arrests by Israeli forces. He characterized these actions as contrary to current international dynamics, evoking a "bygone era."

The Syrian leader also demanded the withdrawal of Israeli forces that entered the buffer zone following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in late 2024. Israel had previously described its deployment as a measure to protect its borders amidst security uncertainty in Syria. Al-Shar' reiterated Damascus's unwavering claim to the Golan Heights, occupied by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War and annexed in 1981, declaring, "Any attempt that touches our sovereignty and violates international law will be stopped. The Golan will remain Syrian land."

These remarks follow al-Shar's indication the previous day that direct discussions between Israel and Syria had already taken place. He conditioned further progress on an Israeli withdrawal from territories occupied since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, suggesting this would precede security arrangement talks that could lead to "lasting peace."